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The Plaza de Armas, or Main Square, is the historic heart of Arequipa, founded alongside the city itself in 1540. From its beginnings as the centerpiece of Spanish colonial planning, it has remained the stage for civic, religious, and cultural life. Over the centuries, the plaza has undergone many changes, including the addition of a second level of arcades in 1915 and reconstruction after earthquakes in 1958 and 1960. Despite these transformations, the square has preserved its role as a place where history and community converge.

Framed by elegant arches and grand buildings, the Plaza de Armas reflects the unique character of Arequipa, often called the 鈥淲hite City鈥� for its use of sillar, a white volcanic stone. This material gives the square its luminous appearance, especially striking in the soft evening light. The cobblestone paths and ornate fa莽ades combine Spanish colonial design with Andean influences, creating a harmonious blend of styles that speaks to the city鈥檚 cultural heritage.

Dominating the square is the Arequipa Cathedral, whose imposing twin towers and sillar fa莽ade showcase the artistry of colonial builders. Completed in 1656, it is one of the city鈥檚 most iconic monuments. Nearby, the Church of the Company of Jesus, built in the 17th century, is admired for its intricate baroque fa莽ade, while the Church of La Merced, with its 18th-century towers, adds to the ensemble鈥檚 richness. Each building contributes to the plaza鈥檚 atmosphere, making it both an architectural showcase and a living gathering space.

Today, the Plaza de Armas remains the city鈥檚 main meeting point, alive with festivals, parades, and daily social life. From the celebrations of Arequipa鈥檚 anniversary to the colorful Carnival, the square continues to be where the community comes together. For visitors, it offers not only a glimpse into the past but also a vibrant introduction to the traditions that shape Arequipa today.

The Church of the Company (Iglesia de la Compania) stands as one of Arequipa鈥檚 most celebrated examples of colonial religious architecture. Built by the Jesuits in the late 16th century, it quickly became a spiritual and cultural centre for the city, reflecting the order鈥檚 influence in Peru during the Spanish colonial period. Though damaged and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes, the church, as it appears today, retains the rich character of its past, combining European styles with local artistry to create a building that is as much a symbol of Arequipa鈥檚 identity as it is a place of worship.

From the outside, the fa莽ade captures immediate attention with its intricate carvings made from sillar, the white volcanic stone that gives Arequipa its nickname, the 鈥淲hite City.鈥� Unlike the sober lines of other colonial churches, the fa莽ade of the church is a masterpiece of the baroque mestizo style, where European motifs blend seamlessly with indigenous designs. Flora, fauna, angels, and even Andean symbols appear intertwined, offering a visual dialogue between cultures that makes the church unique in Peru鈥檚 architectural landscape.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts to one of quiet elegance and artistic richness. The main altar, gilded and elaborately decorated, stands as the focal point, while the side chapels house remarkable works of colonial painting and sculpture. The Chapel of San Ignacio, in particular, is famous for its vividly painted murals depicting tropical flora and fauna, a striking contrast to the church鈥檚 more restrained stone exterior. Visitors are often surprised by this burst of colour, which reflects both the Jesuit missionary spirit and the creative hand of indigenous artists.

For travellers, the Church of the Company is not only a site of religious significance but also a window into the cultural blending that shaped Arequipa鈥檚 history. It offers an intimate perspective on the city鈥檚 colonial past, while its artistry and detail reward those who linger to observe its many layers.

The Church of La Merced (Iglesia de La Merced), founded in 1540 by the Mercedarian Order, is one of the most enduring religious monuments in Arequipa. Built of sillar, the white volcanic stone that defines the city鈥檚 architecture, the church and adjoining convent embody centuries of history, devotion, and resilience. Construction began in 1551 and extended into the early 17th century, though earthquakes in 1687, 1860, and 1950 caused serious damage. Each reconstruction preserved its colonial character while adding new layers, making the church both a living symbol of faith and a cultural landmark within Arequipa鈥檚 historic centre.

The fa莽ade of La Merced combines Gothic and Baroque elements, its rough-hewn stonework offset by intricate carvings. Among the most striking details is the sculpted figure of the Virgin of Mercy flanked by sphinxes, a unique feature reflecting the artistry of colonial craftsmen. The sober portico, framed by small columns, gives way to a richly decorated interior that contrasts with the exterior鈥檚 restraint.

Inside, visitors encounter a masterpiece of Andean Baroque style. The main altar, finely crafted and covered in gold leaf, stands as the focal point of the church. Surrounding it are side chapels adorned with Cuzco School paintings depicting the Virgin of Mercy, Saint Peter Nolasco, and other revered saints. A colonial-era library containing antique volumes further highlights the intellectual and spiritual role the convent once played.

Today, the Church of La Merced continues to function as an active place of worship, offering both a glimpse into Arequipa鈥檚 colonial past and a moment of quiet reflection. For travelers, it is not only an architectural treasure but also a window into the enduring traditions of the Mercedarian order that shaped its history.

The Museum of Andean Sanctuaries offers visitors an intimate encounter with the region鈥檚 most extraordinary archaeological discovery: the frozen mummies of the Andes. Established in 1996, the museum was created to house and study the remains of sacrificial victims uncovered on the peaks of Peru鈥檚 highest mountains, the most famous being the 鈥淚ce Maiden,鈥� or Juanita. Found in 1995 on Mount Ampato by anthropologist Johan Reinhard and his team, Juanita鈥檚 remarkably preserved body offers invaluable insight into Inca rituals and beliefs, particularly the Capacocha ceremonies in which children were sacrificed to honor the gods and ensure cosmic balance.

The museum is housed in a colonial-era building close to Arequipa鈥檚 main square, blending historic surroundings with carefully curated exhibition spaces. Inside, visitors can follow a chronological journey beginning with Inca cosmology and the spiritual role of the mountains, then moving to the discovery of the mummies and their scientific study. Displays include ceramics, textiles, and ritual objects found alongside the bodies, shedding light on the symbolic offerings made during the ceremonies. The atmosphere is contemplative, balancing scientific explanation with cultural sensitivity toward these sacred remains.

The highlight of the visit is the chance to view Juanita herself, displayed under controlled conditions that preserve her natural state. Depending on conservation needs, Juanita may be rotated with other mummies, such as Sarita or Illapa, allowing visitors to witness different aspects of this unique heritage. More than a museum, the site serves as a bridge between the modern world and the Inca past, offering a profound look at how ancient Andean societies sought to communicate with their gods through acts of devotion and sacrifice.

The Cathedral of Arequipa is one of Peru鈥檚 most remarkable religious monuments and a defining symbol of the 鈥淲hite City.鈥� First built in the 16th century, it has been repeatedly rebuilt after earthquakes and fires, with its current appearance largely dating from the 19th century. Constructed primarily of sillar and ignimbrite-white volcanic stones typical of Arequipa-the cathedral reflects both resilience and artistry. Its neo-Renaissance fa莽ade, framed by two tall towers and adorned with seventy Corinthian columns, dominates the square, while details such as the English clock installed in 1842 add further historical depth.

Inside, the cathedral impresses with both scale and refinement. Three naves divided by pilasters are crowned by kerchief vaults, while the high altar, carved from Carrara marble, and the intricately detailed pulpit made in Belgium highlight international influences. Religious artworks, sculptures, altarpieces, and canvases enrich the chapels, offering visitors a glimpse of centuries of Catholic devotion in the region. One of the cathedral鈥檚 greatest treasures is its grand organ, crafted by the Belgian master Fran莽ois Bernard Loret, considered among the largest in South America and admired for having survived centuries of earthquakes.

The cathedral is also home to a museum, inaugurated in 2011, that preserves and displays its most valuable relics. Visitors can explore four galleries filled with gold and silver liturgical objects, priestly vestments, paintings-including works by Francisco Lazo-and unique historical items. Notable among them are the ornate garments of Archbishop Sebasti谩n Goyeneche and the marriage certificate of Peruvian hero Francisco Bolognesi, connecting the cathedral to broader national history.

As the seat of the archbishop and the site of major festivals and processions, the Cathedral of Arequipa remains a living centre of faith and culture. Recognized as part of Arequipa鈥檚 UNESCO World Heritage historic centre, it is as much a spiritual landmark as it is an architectural masterpiece, offering travellers an essential stop for understanding the city鈥檚 heritage and identity.

The San Agustin Church (Iglesia de San Agustin) in Arequipa is one of the city鈥檚 notable colonial churches, reflecting both the artistic richness and spiritual devotion of the region. Built by the Augustinian order in the 16th century, the church has withstood centuries of earthquakes, reconstructions, and transformations, each phase leaving its own imprint on the building. Today, it stands as a testimony to the endurance of Arequipa鈥檚 religious heritage and the craftsmanship of its builders, who worked primarily with sillar, the white volcanic stone that gives the city its 鈥淲hite City鈥� nickname.

Architecturally, the church blends Baroque and mestizo-Baroque styles, making it a fine example of local artistic expression. Its fa莽ade is adorned with intricate carvings of foliage, angels, and saints, showcasing the creativity of indigenous stonemasons who infused European motifs with Andean symbolism. Inside, visitors will find a richly decorated main altar covered in gold leaf, which radiates an air of solemnity and grandeur. Side chapels feature paintings and sculptures that add further depth to the church鈥檚 artistic collection.

For tourists, the San Agustin Church offers more than just architectural beauty. It provides insight into the cultural and religious life of colonial Arequipa, where faith was intertwined with daily existence and local identity. The atmosphere inside the church is both peaceful and contemplative, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a quieter moment amid the busy city streets.

Visiting the San Agustin Church allows travelers to appreciate Arequipa鈥檚 layered history, where Spanish influences and Andean traditions merged to create unique expressions of faith and artistry still admired today.

The House of the Mulberry Tree (Casa del Moral) stands as one of Arequipa鈥檚 best-preserved colonial mansions and a prime example of Andean Baroque civil architecture. Built around 1730, the residence takes its name from the centuries-old mulberry tree that still grows in its central courtyard, a living emblem of the house鈥檚 enduring history. Originally owned by prominent Spanish families, the mansion served as a symbol of wealth and prestige, reflecting the social and political significance of its residents in colonial Arequipa.

The house鈥檚 architecture highlights the rich baroque-mestizo style that characterizes the 鈥淲hite City.鈥� Carved from volcanic sillar stone, its fa莽ade displays intricate motifs, including griffins, floral patterns, and heraldic symbols, regarded as some of the most elaborate in Arequipa. Inside, visitors find a series of courtyards surrounded by spacious rooms, where thick stone walls, carved wooden doors, and vaulted ceilings reveal both European influences and adaptations to the Andean climate. The design offers a vivid sense of daily aristocratic life in 18th-century Peru.

Today, the House of the Mulberry Tree functions as a museum and cultural space, preserving valuable elements of Arequipa鈥檚 colonial heritage. Among its treasures are period furnishings and a collection of Cusco School paintings, which combine European techniques with Andean themes. The library, with more than 3,000 volumes, mainly in Hispanic literature, also stands out as an important cultural asset.

For tourists, the House of the Mulberry Tree offers more than just architectural beauty; it provides a direct connection to the city鈥檚 colonial past and its evolution into a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its ornate stonework, rare art collections, and the quiet presence of the mulberry tree in the courtyard, the house remains an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the historical and cultural richness of Arequipa.

The Saint Catalina Gallery offers visitors a cultural experience set within the walls of one of the city鈥檚 most historic sites. Located inside the famed Monastery of Santa Catalina, the gallery showcases a remarkable collection of colonial and religious art that reflects both the Spanish influence and the local Andean traditions that shaped Arequipa鈥檚 identity. The monastery itself was founded in 1579 and functioned as a cloistered community for centuries, giving the artwork preserved here a unique connection to the city鈥檚 religious and cultural past.

Among the gallery鈥檚 highlights are paintings from the renowned Cusco School, an artistic movement that blended European styles with indigenous themes and techniques. These works stand out for their vivid colours, ornate detailing, and symbolic imagery, often depicting biblical stories in ways that resonate with the Andean cultural landscape. Many of the pieces were created by anonymous monks and artisans, adding to their aura of devotion and quiet craftsmanship.

Visitors to the gallery not only encounter art but also step into the preserved atmosphere of the monastery. The thick ashlar stone walls, peaceful courtyards, and quiet halls provide a fitting backdrop for the works on display. Wandering through the gallery feels like a journey back in time, where art and spirituality merge to tell the story of faith and resilience in Arequipa.

The Guillermo Zegarra Meneses Municipal Historical Museum is a cultural landmark in Arequipa that offers visitors an intimate look into the city鈥檚 layered past. Housed in a colonial-era mansion, the museum is named after Guillermo Zegarra Meneses, a respected historian and former mayor who worked to preserve Arequipa鈥檚 heritage. The building itself is part of the experience: constructed from the region鈥檚 signature white volcanic sillar stone, it reflects the distinctive architectural character that earned Arequipa its nickname, the 鈥淲hite City.鈥�

Inside, the museum presents a collection that traces the city鈥檚 evolution from pre-Hispanic times to the Republican era. Exhibits include archaeological artifacts, colonial paintings, religious art, and everyday objects that illustrate how Arequipa grew as a regional hub. One highlight is the display of antique maps and manuscripts that shed light on the city鈥檚 development and its role in broader Peruvian history. The mix of artistic and historical pieces helps create a narrative of continuity and change, showing how different periods shaped Arequipa鈥檚 identity.

Visitors will also find rooms dedicated to notable local figures and events that influenced the city鈥檚 cultural and political life. These displays not only honor important personalities but also give context to Arequipa鈥檚 tradition of civic pride and independence. The museum鈥檚 modest size makes it easy to explore in a single visit, offering a rewarding stop for those interested in learning more about the region beyond its better-known monasteries and plazas.

For tourists, the Guillermo Zegarra Meneses Museum provides both a quiet retreat and an educational experience. Its blend of architecture, history, and art offers a clear window into Arequipa鈥檚 character, making it a worthwhile addition to any cultural itinerary.

The San Francisco Church (Iglesia San Francisco) stands amid the cobbled streets of Arequipa鈥檚 historic center as a vivid emblem of colonial faith and architectural elegance. Located near the Plaza de Armas, the church anchors an important religious complex that includes a convent and museum. Visitors are drawn not only to its religious significance but also to its role as a living archive of Arequipa鈥檚 identity, constructed in gleaming sillar, the white volcanic stone.

The origins of the complex reach back to the arrival of Franciscan friars in 1540, who first established a modest adobe chapel dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. Over the centuries, the site underwent expansion and embellishment, particularly in the 17th century, when the use of sillar and the adoption of Baroque and Renaissance ornamentation gave it the form seen today. Surviving numerous earthquakes and phases of restoration, the church remains a spiritual hub and cultural landmark in the city.

Architecturally, San Francisco blends colonial restraint and baroque flourishes. Its fa莽ade displays carved details, Salomonic columns, and ornamental flourishes typical of the period, while the interior reveals chapels richly decorated with retablos, sculptures, and artwork. The adjoining convent enhances the experience: cloisters ringed by sillar columns open to tranquil gardens and a museum housing colonial religious art, Cusco-school paintings, ancient manuscripts, and liturgical objects used by the friars.

For today鈥檚 visitors, access to the church is free, while entry to the convent museum is modest (around 10 soles for adults, 5 for children). The site鈥檚 dual role-as place of worship and keeper of heritage-invites a contemplative walk through art, faith, and history.

Saint Francisco Street (Calle San Francisco) is one of the most inviting thoroughfares in Arequipa鈥檚 historic centre, blending colonial charm with the lively atmosphere of a cultural hub. The street takes its name from the San Francisco Church and Monastery, whose origins date back to the 16th century. The complex, with its ashlar stone construction, cloisters, and religious art, is a reminder of the early Franciscan presence in the city and anchors the street鈥檚 historical character.

What makes Saint Francisco Street particularly attractive to visitors is the way it captures the rhythm of daily life in Arequipa. Lined with white sillar buildings, many of them dating from the colonial era, the street offers a graceful setting for both quiet strolls and evenings out. By day, travelers can explore handicraft shops and small galleries that highlight local traditions, while at night the area transforms into one of the city鈥檚 main social scenes, with bars, caf茅s, and restaurants welcoming both locals and tourists.

The street also serves as a gateway to some of Arequipa鈥檚 lesser-known corners. From here, visitors can access the Fundo el Fierro, a former colonial estate now housing artisan stalls, or continue towards other historic sites within the UNESCO-listed centre. Its central location and mix of heritage, culture, and modern leisure make Saint Francisco Street an ideal stop for those looking to experience Arequipa beyond its monumental plazas and churches, offering a balance between history and contemporary urban life.